Carboxyalkylated and sulfoalkylated nano lignin as an emulsifier for coating application

The overall objective of this study is to generate lignin-derived sustainable emulsion systems for coating applications. The main focus of this study is on the generation of functional lignin derivatives and then the conversion of these lignin derivatives to lignin nanoparticles. Afterward, the use of lignin nanoparticles in oil-water emulsions will be studied for coating applications.
Specifically, she will study the generation of lignin nanoparticles from carboxyalkylated and sulfoalkylated lignin and comprehensively characterize them. Then, she will study how these nanoparticles can be used as oil-water emulsifiers with different characteristics.
This project will examine the use of carboxyalkated and sulfoalkylated lignin in an application that has not been studied in Canada, and therefore will widen the activities of lignin valorization at Lakehead University (and Canada). Although Lakehead University has an advanced laboratory for lignin characterization, it is not equipped for assessing coating applications. Therefore, this internship will not only provide an opportunity for the intern to learn new methods and visit KTH but also a chance for Lakehead university to explore the use of lignin in a new application (i.e., coating formulations).

Faculty Supervisor:

Pedram Fatehi

Student:

Partner:

Kungliga Tekniska Högskolan

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Sustainability & the Environment; Advanced Manufacturing; Nanotechnology

University:

Lakehead University

Program: